Let’s Talk About NavPod GP1501 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Garmin 7xx and 7x Series w/Space On The Left f/9.5″ Wide Guard
The NavPod GP1501 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Garmin 7xx and 7x Series w/Space On The Left f/9.5″ Wide Guard is designed to provide a robust and aesthetically pleasing solution for mounting marine electronics. Specifically tailored for Garmin 7xx and 7x series chartplotters, with additional space for other instruments, it promises to consolidate your navigation suite into a single, easily accessible location. This is especially appealing for boaters looking to declutter their helm and improve situational awareness.
For years, I’ve wrestled with piecemeal mounting solutions that looked cluttered and offered questionable protection against the elements. I needed a unified, weather-resistant housing for my Garmin chartplotter and VHF mic. The promise of a pre-cut design, allowing for quick installation, was also a major draw, as I’m always looking to minimize downtime on the water.
Upon unboxing, the NavPod GP1501 immediately impressed me with its solid construction and clean lines. The acrylic capped ABS plastic felt incredibly durable, suggesting it could withstand years of harsh marine environments. It’s surprisingly lightweight, which is a bonus when considering its size and potential for adding additional weight to the boat’s console.
Compared to individual mounting brackets or DIY solutions, the NavPod offers a significant upgrade in terms of both protection and aesthetics. While some competitor products offer similar functionality, they often lack the refined design and pre-cut convenience of the NavPod. This seemed to be a superior product to anything I have seen from RAM Mounts or Seaview.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was genuinely excited about the prospect of finally having a clean, professional-looking navigation station that could withstand the rigors of offshore sailing. The NavPod GP1501 seemed like the perfect blend of form and function.
Real-World Testing: Putting NavPod GP1501 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Garmin 7xx and 7x Series w/Space On The Left f/9.5″ Wide Guard to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the NavPod GP1501 on my 32-foot sailboat, which is primarily used for coastal cruising and occasional offshore passages. The installation process was remarkably straightforward, thanks to the pre-cut design and included stainless steel mounting hardware. I immediately noticed how securely the Garmin unit fit within the NavPod.
Testing it in various conditions, including a particularly nasty squall with heavy rain and strong winds, proved its worth. The double seal provided excellent watertight integrity, keeping my electronics dry and functioning flawlessly. I was happy to see no water intrusion and the NavPod didn’t budge at all.
Initially, there was a small learning curve in terms of optimizing the viewing angle and overall placement. However, the adjustability of the mounting system allowed for fine-tuning to achieve the perfect setup.
After the first use, I had no major issues. I only needed to make some small adjustments to ensure optimal visibility.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the NavPod GP1501 continues to perform exceptionally well. The ABS plastic shows no signs of fading or cracking, even after prolonged exposure to UV radiation and saltwater. The hardware remains corrosion-free, maintaining a secure and reliable mount.
There are no signs of wear and tear. The NavPod cleans easily with soap and water.
Compared to my previous setup, which involved a flimsy plastic mount that frequently vibrated loose, the NavPod has been a revelation. It offers far superior protection, stability, and peace of mind. This completely out performs my old system.
Breaking Down the Features of NavPod GP1501 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Garmin 7xx and 7x Series w/Space On The Left f/9.5″ Wide Guard
Specifications
- The NavPod GP1501 SystemPod is specifically pre-cut for Garmin 720/721/740/740s/741/721xs/741xs/70s/70dv series chartplotters. This eliminates the need for custom modifications and ensures a snug, secure fit.
- It includes space on the left for a 9.5″ wide guard, allowing for the integration of additional instruments or accessories. This is key for VHF mic placement.
- The NavPod is constructed from acrylic capped ABS plastic. This material offers excellent UV resistance, impact strength, and overall durability in marine environments.
- It features chromed stainless steel tamper-proof fasteners. These provide a secure and corrosion-resistant closure while deterring theft.
- A double seal ensures watertight integrity. This protects your valuable electronics from water damage and corrosion.
- Stainless steel mounting hardware and mounting gaskets are included. This provides everything needed for a straightforward and secure installation.
- The Manufacturer is NavPod, a well-known and respected brand in the marine electronics mounting industry.
- The color is black, offering a sleek and professional look that blends well with most boat consoles.
These specifications matter because they directly translate to the NavPod’s performance, reliability, and longevity. The pre-cut design saves time and effort during installation, while the robust materials and watertight construction ensure that your electronics are well-protected in even the harshest conditions. The stainless steel hardware provides peace of mind against corrosion, a common problem in marine environments.
Performance & Functionality
The NavPod GP1501 excels at its primary job: securely housing and protecting marine electronics. The pre-cut design ensures a perfect fit for compatible Garmin units, eliminating any wobble or vibration. This provides a stable and reliable platform for your navigation equipment.
The added space for a 9.5″ wide guard is particularly useful for mounting additional instruments, such as a VHF radio microphone or autopilot control. The watertight seal provides excellent protection against rain, spray, and even accidental submersion.
The main strength is its robust construction and ease of installation. The minor weakness is the need for a separate mounting solution (AngleGuard or Stachion Kit), which adds to the overall cost. Overall, the NavPod meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The NavPod GP1501 boasts a clean and functional design that integrates seamlessly with most boat consoles. The black ABS plastic has a matte finish that minimizes glare and reflections. The viewing angle is easily adjustable, allowing for optimal visibility from various seating positions.
The build quality is excellent, with tight seams and a solid feel. Despite its size, the NavPod is relatively lightweight, minimizing the overall weight added to the console. There is a small learning curve to understand all of the adjustment angles.
Durability & Maintenance
The NavPod GP1501 is built to last. The acrylic capped ABS plastic is highly resistant to UV degradation, impact damage, and chemical exposure. The stainless steel hardware is corrosion-resistant, ensuring long-term reliability in marine environments.
Maintenance is simple: just wipe down the NavPod with soap and water as needed. The tamper-proof fasteners discourage theft and unauthorized access.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NavPod GP1501 comes with stainless steel mounting hardware and mounting gaskets. Customization options are somewhat limited, but the added space for a 9.5″ wide guard allows for the integration of various instruments and accessories.
The NavPod is compatible with a wide range of mounting solutions, including Single Bend AngleGuards and SK135 Stachion Kits. These provide flexibility in terms of mounting location and viewing angle.
Pros and Cons of NavPod GP1501 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Garmin 7xx and 7x Series w/Space On The Left f/9.5″ Wide Guard
Pros
- Pre-cut for seamless integration with compatible Garmin chartplotters.
- Robust construction with UV-resistant ABS plastic and stainless steel hardware.
- Watertight design provides excellent protection for valuable electronics.
- Additional space for mounting instruments or accessories.
- Clean and professional aesthetic enhances the boat’s console.
Cons
- Requires separate purchase of mounting solution (AngleGuard or Stachion Kit).
- Limited customization options beyond the pre-cut configuration.
Who Should Buy NavPod GP1501 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Garmin 7xx and 7x Series w/Space On The Left f/9.5″ Wide Guard?
The NavPod GP1501 is perfect for boat owners who want a clean, professional, and weather-resistant solution for mounting their Garmin 7xx or 7x series chartplotter. It’s ideal for both powerboat and sailboat owners who value durability, functionality, and aesthetics. Pro anglers and coastal cruisers will see immediate benefits.
Anyone who is not using one of the specified Garmin units or is looking for a fully customizable mounting solution should skip this product. A must-have accessory is the appropriate mounting bracket (AngleGuard or Stachion Kit) to ensure proper installation and viewing angle.
Conclusion on NavPod GP1501 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Garmin 7xx and 7x Series w/Space On The Left f/9.5″ Wide Guard
The NavPod GP1501 SystemPod Pre-Cut f/Garmin 7xx and 7x Series w/Space On The Left f/9.5″ Wide Guard is an excellent investment for boaters seeking a robust and reliable solution for mounting their marine electronics. The pre-cut design, durable construction, and watertight seal provide unparalleled protection and convenience. The added space for accessories is a welcome bonus.
The price of $359.99 is justified by the quality of materials, ease of installation, and long-term reliability. I would personally recommend the NavPod GP1501 to anyone looking to upgrade their boat’s navigation station with a professional and durable mounting solution.
Don’t settle for flimsy mounts that leave your electronics vulnerable to the elements. Invest in the NavPod GP1501 and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your valuable equipment is well-protected and securely mounted. Upgrade your boating experience today!